Things To Do
in Haguenau
Haguenau is a historic Alsace town in the Grand Est region, just north of Strasbourg. It sits at the edge of the expansive Haguenau Forest, blending forested scenery with a charming old town center. The cobbled lanes, timber-framed façades, and welcoming winstubs reflect a culture shaped by both French and German influences.
Use Haguenau as a gateway to the Vosges, Alsace wine routes, and easy day trips to Strasbourg and other nearby towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Haguenau's historic center, where medieval architecture meets vibrant local life. Stop by the Place d'Haguenau to enjoy a fresh croissant and a cup of café au lait at one of the delightful bakeries. As you wander, take in the beautiful buildings such as the Church of St. George and the Renaissance-style town hall.
After a delightful lunch at a local bistro, dedicate your afternoon to exploring the Musée Historique, where you can uncover the rich history of the region through intriguing exhibits. Spend some time at the nearby Parc de la Zorn, a perfect spot for a relaxing walk amidst nature and art installations. As the afternoon light begins to soften, consider visiting local shops and artisan boutiques for unique souvenirs.
As evening falls, prepare for a culinary adventure at a traditional Alsatian restaurant, where you can savor regional specialties such as tarte flambée and choucroute garnie. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Zorn River, enjoying the peaceful ambiance as the sun sets. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local wine bar to sample some exquisite Alsace wines, completing your day with a taste of the region.
Start your day by visiting the nearby Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Enjoy a refreshing hike through lush forests and rolling hills, keeping an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and various bird species. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the serene surroundings, allowing you to connect with nature.
After your morning hike, head to the Wissembourg area for a guided tour to learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region. Explore the picturesque villages along the way, stopping at a local farm for a taste of fresh produce and artisanal cheeses. Later, unwind at one of the park's scenic viewpoints, taking in the breathtaking vistas of the Alsatian countryside.
As dusk approaches, return to Haguenau for a cozy dinner at a rustic eatery featuring traditional Alsatian fare. Enjoy the warm atmosphere as you indulge in hearty dishes complemented by local wines. After dinner, stroll through the town square, where you might find lively street performances or local musicians creating a delightful end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🧀Cheese or local wine | $8-25 |
| 🚇Public transport day pass | $4-7 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Alsace culture and easy access to wine routes
- Proximity to Strasbourg and the Vosges for day trips
- Pleasant mix of historic charm and forested nature
- Smaller town vibe means limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some attractions require short drives to reach
- Seasonal crowds can affect market and street logistics
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is… ?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Haguenau
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square with timber-framed houses and charming cobbled streets—ideal for morning or golden-hour photography.
Gothic church with a tall spire and intricate details; great for architectural shots and interior light.
Neoclassical Town Hall façade and the lively square offer dynamic street photography moments.
Tranquil riverside paths with reflections and seasonal foliage; perfect for tranquil landscape photos.
Green spaces and forest overlooks provide sweeping landscape frames, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Haguenau
Haguenau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A paper-thin crust topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons; a quintessential Alsace starter or main.
Must-Try!
Sauerkraut cooked with various meats (usually sausages, pork, and potatoes) and often served with mustard.
A slow-cooked casserole of marinated meat, potatoes, and onions in a stone pot; deeply flavorful and perfect for cooler days.
A yeasted cake with raisins or almonds, often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
A strong-smavored regional cheese typically paired with bread or wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, sausages, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour when entering shops; a polite greeting goes a long way in daily interactions.
Keep hands visible on the table; wait for everyone to be served before starting; wine is often enjoyed with meals.
Most locals speak French; some may have German-influenced regional phrases. A small effort with basic phrases is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Haguenau
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is typically included in the bill (service compris). If satisfied, rounding up or leaving an additional 5-10% is common for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments. Cash is useful for small vendors and markets; checks are uncommon in street transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with intermittent rain; blossoms in parks and streets add color to photos; good for strolls and outdoor markets.
Warm weather with long days; occasional thunderstorms. Outdoor dining and forest trails are popular; stay hydrated.
Comfortable temperatures and brilliant foliage; ideal for walking tours, wine-related events in the broader Alsace region.
Cold with chances of snow; festive lights and Christmas markets in Alsace towns nearby create magical photo opportunities.
Haguenau at Night
Hiking in Haguenau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails through Europe’s largest connected forest, suitable for all levels.
Relaxed riverside hikes and gentle woodland paths just outside the town.
Airports
How to reach Haguenau by plane.
Major regional gateway about 25-45 minutes by rail or car from Haguenau, with connections to European destinations.
Larger international hub about 1.5-2 hours by train or car; convenient for cross-border travelers.
Smaller airport about 1.5-2 hours away by road; useful for some European routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Alsatian families, professionals, and retirees with a strong sense of regional identity and bilingual influences.
People traveling to Strasbourg and nearby areas for work or study; diverse backgrounds with older and younger demographics.
Seasonal visitors drawn to Alsace culture, wine, and forest recreation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and amateur leagues provide community-level play and matches year-round.
Flat and gentle routes exist in the town and surrounding countryside, ideal for day trips.
Nearby Vosges venues offer skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haguenau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in many winstubs; look for vegetable tarts, mushroom dishes, and seasonal salads.